This course will focus on several important aspects of the classical music scene in America from its nascency to present day. More specifically, it will explore the importance of American musical institutions, and the tension and collaboration enacted between individual mavericks and collective institutions. Indeed, these two organizing principles running parallel to one another: the relationships between institutions (orchestras, opera companies, unions, presenting organizations, festivals, and even the government) and individuals (conductors, performers, entrepreneurs, and composers) are an important and remarkable aspect of the American musical story. The course does not require fluency in musical notation or analysis.

Students will be expected to read the assigned readings before class and listen to musical examples provided on CTools. If possible, we will also arrange for a collective field trip that will include a tour of the University Musical Society, a discussion with leading arts managers, and a concert.

Syllabi are available to current LSA students. IMPORTANT: These syllabi are provided to give students a general idea about the courses, as offered by LSA departments and programs in prior academic terms. The syllabi do not necessarily reflect the assignments, sequence of course materials, and/or course expectations that the faculty and departments/programs have for these same courses in the current and/or future terms.

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